VerticAlp Emosson – Funiculars and Reservoir

VerticAlp Emosson comprises 3 historic mountain railways that take you to Switzerland’s second-largest reservoir. Around the lake, hiking trails await you with views of Mont Blanc and 250-million-year-old dinosaur tracks.

VerticAlp Emosson at a glance

VerticAlp Emosson connects 3 historic railways dating from the 1920s: a funicular, panoramic train and mini funicular take visitors from Le Châtelard up to the 180-metre-high arch dam. The reservoir at an altitude of 1930 metres is Switzerland’s second-largest. From the top of the dam, you have a clear view of the Mont Blanc massif.

What you can experience

Panoramic journey with 3 railways (45 minutes)

At Le Châtelard, you board the funicular, which has a gradient of up to 87 per cent. The panoramic train then winds its way along the mountainside, offering views of Mont Blanc. The final stage takes you up to the top of the dam by mini funicular. The historic railways date from the construction of the first dam in the 1920s.

• Good to know: The railways are wheelchair accessible.
• Tip: Leave your car at home and take the Mont-Blanc-Express from Martigny.

Guided tour of the dam (1.5 hours)

Venture inside the massive concrete structure. On a guided tour, you walk across the top of the dam and through the inspection galleries. You will learn fascinating background information about the construction and history of the facility. Along the way, you can sense the power of the masses of water held back by the 180-metre-high wall.

• Good to know: The tours are in French.
• Tip: Wear warm clothing and sturdy shoes.

Circular hike to the dinosaur tracks (5 hours)

Follow the trail from the reservoir to the Vieux-Emosson hut and continue up to Lac du Vieux-Emosson. A geological sensation awaits you there: 250-million-year-old footprints of archosaurs preserved in the rock. Information panels explain how the dinosaur tracks formed and tell the story of the Alps.

• Good to know: Sturdy shoes and weatherproof clothing are essential for this hike.
• Tip: If you want to shorten the hike, turn back at the Vieux-Emosson hut.